Heather Graham, the star of "The Chosen Family," is opening up about her unique perspective on aging and the significance of affirmations in her life. In a recent interview featured in Retreat Magazine's Visionary Issue cover story, the 55-year-old actress emphasized that what truly matters is how you feel on the inside as time passes. "Decide that you're hot and enjoy your life," Graham advises. She firmly believes that the opinions of others should not dictate your self-worth: "What other people think of you is none of your business." According to her, cultivating a positive self-image is essential because if you feel good about yourself, no one can take that away from you.
Graham also encourages individuals to pursue activities that bring them joy and to surround themselves with supportive, loving people. During her latest photo shoot at The Maybourne Beverly Hills, styled by Hannah Kerri, she reflected on her personal habits that contribute to her well-being. Notably, Graham abstains from alcohol and drugs, prioritizes sleep, maintains a healthy diet, and enjoys cooking for both herself and others. "Also, I do affirmations," she shared. "I think they are very powerful." One of her personal affirmations is: "This is the best time of my life."
In a similar vein, Graham expressed her thoughts in a conversation with PEOPLE in 2024, where she challenged the societal narrative that women become less desirable or disposable in their 50s. "It's sort of deciding that you're sexy, even if you know that the culture is trying to tell you whatever it's trying to tell you," she stated. For Graham, it's all about making the conscious choice to feel fabulous and look amazing, regardless of external influences.
During her discussion with Retreat Magazine, Graham elaborated on her views regarding wellness. She described wellness as being kind to oneself and engaging in nurturing activities. "I learned how to meditate when I was 21, and I have been doing 40 minutes a day ever since," she explained. Graham is also a fan of yoga, stating that it helps her disconnect from her thoughts and become more present in her body. "I think the most important thing is to have loving people around you," she added, expressing gratitude for her wonderful friends.
Graham shared a powerful message about self-love: "I think the most important thing is to love yourself because then you have more love to give. Fill up your cup first before you give to other people." She also noted the importance of maintaining a sense of humor throughout life. Graham, who first gained fame in the late '80s with films like "Drugstore Cowboy," currently stars alongside Stephen Dorff and Nicolas Cage in her latest movie, "Gunslingers."
In a recent encounter with PEOPLE at the Sierra Club’s Trail Blazers Ball in April, Graham reflected on how her priorities have shifted as she ages. "Everyone gets upset sometimes, but I think that I'm happier," she said. With years of personal growth behind her, Graham feels content with the simple pleasures in life: "I just enjoy the simple things in life — like sleeping, eating, my friends, things like that." She also mentioned her love for meditation, hiking, beach outings, and yoga retreats as some of her favorite ways to unwind and connect with herself.
As Heather Graham continues to embrace her journey of self-discovery and wellness, her message resonates strongly: true happiness comes from within, and nurturing one’s inner self can lead to a fulfilling and joyful life.
